As part of the Fall 2014 Haiti Dialogue Series organized by the Earth Institute’s Haiti Research and Policy Program, Roger-Mark de Souza joined a group of faculty, researchers, students and policymakers to discuss the latest research linking climate change, natural hazards, development and fragility in Haiti.

The deal, a surprise to many, has been called, “historic.” Last month, U.S. President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced both countries will curb their greenhouse gas emissions over the next two decades. Is this the game changer that those calling for action have been waiting for? Will this create momentum for increased international cooperation? And what does the deal address beyond carbon emissions? China Environment Forum Director, Jennifer Turner provides analysis.

The recent Senate vote did not end the ongoing debate over attempts to complete the Keystone XL Pipeline. And while the political debate is somewhat understood, the actual process and jurisdictional issues involved in a major cross-border undertaking are less clear. A recent panel convened by the Canada Institute attempted to provide some clarity. That’s the focus of this edition of REWIND.

The historic deal between the US and China promises to set the most ambitious carbon reduction standards for ever in the world’s two top green house gas emitters. In Beijing, it’s all about keeping the economy up and public discontent down. Jennifer Turner, CEF director was interviewed by KCRW radio program for the program To the Point, talking about reasons for China to make the deal and their chances to realize it.

With every new report issued, increasingly dire warnings about present and future threats posed by a warming planet suggest a more vigorous response than has been seen to date. Political action has been slowed or stymied by ideological debates that have little to do with the world of science or realities on the ground. Such inaction raises questions about whether any sector of society is adequately responding to the challenge or if there is even time to do so. A new round of international meetings will soon begin. In anticipation of those efforts, and in response to recent reports, Roger-Mark De Souza provides insight into what to expect and describes issues that should be part of the agenda moving forward.